Radiant Esthetics Frequently Asked Questions
At Radiant Esthetics, we believe informed clients see the best results. Below are answers to some of the most common questions about our treatments, results, and what to expect when you visit our Newport, RI med spa.
Injectables & Botox
-
Radiant Esthetics offers a full range of FDA-approved injectable treatments to soften fine lines, smooth wrinkles, and restore youthful definition. Options include:
BOTOX® Cosmetic – smooths forehead lines, frown lines, crow’s feet, and neck bands by temporarily relaxing the facial muscles that cause wrinkles.
Dysport® – similar to Botox, designed to treat frown lines and forehead wrinkles; results often appear within a few days and last up to four months.
Daxxify® – a long-lasting, peptide-powered neuromodulator that can last up to six months.
Lip Flip – uses neurotoxin to relax the upper lip muscle, creating a subtly fuller, natural look.
Kybella® – dissolves fat under the chin for a more sculpted jawline.
PRF (Platelet-Rich Fibrin) Injections – a natural, collagen-boosting treatment that uses your body’s own platelets for skin rejuvenation.
Dermal Fillers (Restylane®, Versa®, Sculptra®, Skinvive®, Renuva®) – smooth fine lines, restore volume, and enhance facial contours.
-
Botox®, Dysport®, and Daxxify® are all neuromodulators that soften expression lines by relaxing the muscles that cause wrinkles. While they work in similar ways, there are key differences:
Onset:
Dysport often shows results the fastest (2–3 days).
Botox typically appears within 3–5 days.
Daxxify develops similarly to Botox, with results building over several days.
Spread:
Dysport diffuses slightly more, making it ideal for larger areas like the forehead.
Botox and Daxxify have more precise placement.
Duration:
Botox and Dysport last about 3–4 months.
Daxxify is the longest-lasting neuromodulator available, with results lasting 4–6 months for many clients.
Your provider will help determine which option is best based on your goals, anatomy, and desired longevity.
-
At Radiant Esthetics in Newport, Botox, Dysport, and Daxxify can treat:
Forehead lines and furrows
Frown lines (between the brows)
Crow’s feet (around the eyes)
Neck bands or “tech neck” lines
They can also be used therapeutically for concerns such as excessive sweating (hyperhidrosis), jaw tension, and certain migraine patterns when appropriate.
Your provider will recommend which neuromodulator is best for your goals and facial anatomy.
-
Results vary by product and individual metabolism:
Botox: typically lasts 3–4 months
Dysport: lasts about 3–4 months
Daxxify: lasts 4–6 months, making it the longest-lasting option currently available
Consistent maintenance helps extend and optimize your results over time.
-
Treatments are quick and virtually painless. A very fine needle is used to inject the solution into targeted facial muscles. No anesthesia is required, though topical numbing or ice can be used for added comfort. The procedure usually takes less than 15 minutes, and you can return to your normal activities immediately afterward.
-
Dysport: often visible within 2–3 days
Botox: begins working within 3–5 days
Daxxify: begins working within several days, with full results developing by 1–2 weeks
All three products reach full effect around two weeks.
Clients enjoy a refreshed, natural look that softens lines while maintaining facial expression.
-
Side effects are typically mild and temporary. The most common include:
Slight redness or swelling at the injection sites
Minor bruising or tenderness
Temporary headache or eyelid heaviness (uncommon)
These resolve within hours to a couple of days. Avoid touching or massaging the treated area for 24 hours and skip strenuous exercise immediately afterward.
All injections at Radiant Esthetics are performed by trained medical professionals to ensure safe, natural-looking results.
-
Ideal candidates are adults under 65 who want to temporarily smooth moderate to severe lines caused by repeated facial movement.
Injectables may not be suitable for those who:Have active skin infections at the injection site
Are pregnant or breastfeeding
Have a history of neuromuscular disorders
Your provider will review your medical history to ensure safety and tailor your treatment plan.
-
Yes — when performed by skilled injectors, results look refreshed and natural, never overdone. Our approach at Radiant Esthetics is subtle and balanced, enhancing your natural beauty while preserving facial expression.
Facials & Skin Treatments
-
At Radiant Esthetics, our Custom Medical-Grade Facial and HydraFacial are two of the most popular treatments for achieving radiant, healthy skin.
The Custom Medical-Grade Facial deeply cleanses and refines the skin using steam extraction, light chemical exfoliation, and premium skincare ingredients to minimize pores, smooth fine lines, and even skin tone.
The HydraFacial combines cleansing, exfoliation, extraction, hydration, and antioxidant infusion for an instantly brighter, more hydrated complexion.
Both treatments are fully customized for your skin type and goals.
-
The HydraFacial uses a patented vortex technology that simultaneously exfoliates, extracts, and infuses hydrating serums to refresh and protect your skin. It’s ideal for clients looking for an instant glow with no downtime.
Our Medical-Grade Facial uses lactic and amino acid peels, steam, and manual extraction to target deeper concerns such as enlarged pores, acne scars, dullness, and uneven tone while stimulating collagen production. -
For optimal results, we recommend:
HydraFacial: every 4–6 weeks to maintain clarity, hydration, and glow.
Custom Medical-Grade Facial: every 6–8 weeks to support collagen renewal and ongoing skin health.
Consistent treatments help your skin stay balanced, rejuvenated, and resistant to environmental stressors.
-
Most clients notice immediate improvements in skin smoothness, brightness, and hydration. Results from both treatments peak a few days after your appointment, as your skin fully absorbs active ingredients and continues to renew itself.
-
Expect your post-facial glow to last about 7–10 days. Regular treatments enhance long-term benefits, such as minimized fine lines, improved elasticity, and a visibly more youthful complexion.
-
Side effects are minimal and temporary. Some clients experience mild redness immediately after treatment, which usually resolves within a few hours. Both facials are gentle and non-invasive — there’s no downtime, and you can return to your normal activities right away.
We recommend applying SPF 30 and avoiding direct sun exposure for 24 hours to protect your results and maintain your radiant glow. -
If you’re seeking an instant boost in hydration and brightness, the HydraFacial is ideal — perfect before an event or as a monthly refresh.
If your goal is to treat deeper concerns such as uneven tone, texture, or congestion, the Custom Medical-Grade Facial offers a more targeted, corrective approach.
Our aesthetic team will help you choose the right treatment based on your skin’s unique needs.
Laser Treatments
-
Yes! Our laser hair reduction treatments are safe, effective, and customized for your skin type. We use advanced technology to reduce unwanted hair on areas like the face, underarms, legs, and bikini line.
-
Most clients see significant reduction after 6–8 sessions, spaced 4–6 weeks apart. Your provider will recommend a plan based on your goals and hair type.
-
BBL (BroadBand Light) is an advanced light-based treatment that targets sun damage, pigmentation, redness, rosacea, fine lines, acne, and other visible signs of aging. At Radiant Esthetics in Newport, RI, BBL safely delivers pulses of light into the skin to stimulate collagen, improve texture, and restore a clearer, more even-toned complexion.
-
Moxi is a gentle, non-ablative fractional laser designed for all skin types and ideal for year-round skin maintenance (especially during times of lower sun exposure). It helps improve pigmentation, skin tone and texture, sun damage, and early signs of aging, and is also a great option for treating more stubborn concerns like melasma. Moxi can be used on the face and body for fast, long-lasting skin rejuvenation.
-
HALO is a hybrid fractional laser that combines the benefits of traditional ablative and non-ablative lasers in one treatment. It targets uneven skin tone, sun damage, fine lines and wrinkles, acne scars, and enlarged pores while stimulating your skin’s natural rejuvenation process. The result is smoother, more youthful-looking skin with less downtime than traditional resurfacing.
-
BBL primarily targets pigmentation, redness, and sun damage while also stimulating collagen, making it great for discoloration and overall clarity. Moxi works more superficially to refine texture, tone, and mild laxity and is safe for all skin types and many body areas. HALO goes deeper, combining ablative and non-ablative wavelengths to address more advanced concerns like wrinkles, acne scars, and significant sun damage, often with more dramatic resurfacing results.
-
All three treatments are designed with minimal downtime in mind. With BBL, you may experience mild redness and temporary darkening of spots that flake off over several days. Moxi often leaves the skin slightly pink and “sandpapery” for a few days as it renews. HALO can feel like a sunburn for a day or two with some bronzing and peeling as the skin resurfaces. Your provider will review what to expect and give you tailored aftercare instructions for your specific treatment plan.
Pre- & Post-Treatment Care
-
POST TREATMENT
May apply makeup immediately following procedure if desired
If areas of redness/rosacea or facial vessels have been treated, avoid vigorous exercise and exposure to excessive heat for 48-72 hours
If sun spots or areas of hyperpigmentation have been treated, you may experience a coffee ground texture that will slough off within 1-2 weeks
Be sure to apply an SPF 30+ every day and avoid direct, and minimize indirect sun exposure for the first 1-2 weeks, as your skin will be more susceptible to damage/hyperpigmentation
Use mild cleansers and moisturizers and avoid any harsh topical treatments with acids or retinoids/ retinols for at least 1-2 weeks
Be dilligent with sunscreen in between sessions, as tanned skin cannot safely be treated with BBL.
Optimal results can be achieved with 3-4 treatments spaced 4 weeks apart, with maintenance sessions 1-2 times annually thereafter.
-
POST TREATMENT
Skin may be bruised and swollen following injections, and will peak within the first 72 hours. You may apply arnica gel (with clean hands) and ice. If not medically contraindicated, you may also take oral arnica, ibuprofen/Advil/Motrin, and/or an over-the-counter antihistamine such as Claritin.
It is common to feel small lumps/bumps in treated areas. Avoid rubbing or massaging, as these typically settle within 2–4 weeks post treatment.
Avoid touching injected areas and makeup application for the remainder of treatment day.
Avoid vigorous exercise or exposure to excessive heat for 24 hours post treatment.
Avoid facial massages for at least 2 weeks.
Try to sleep on your back for the first 1–2 weeks after treatment to prevent any possible movement of the filler.
Avoid any dental procedures/cleanings and vaccinations for at least 2 weeks before and after dermal injections.
If you experience any sudden, severe pain or change in color of your skin (anywhere, not just treated areas) after your treatment, call our 24-hour contact number immediately. Adverse effects are rare, but we are prepared to handle any such events that may occur.
-
PRE TREATMENT
Sun protection for 14 days before treatment (Must be a physical sunscreen and have key ingredient zinc oxide)
Avoid any retinoids/irritants for one week prior to treatment
Good moisturizing prior to treatment
FOR DARKER SKIN TYPES AND MELASMA PATIENTS:
Pre-treat with hydroquinone for 1 week
Wait 72 hours after treatment and continue
DAY OF TREATMENT:
Clean face to appointment
800 mg ibuprofen recommended day of treatment
Keep in mind, topical numbing will be applied an hour prior to treatment in office. Pronox is also available and highly recommended throughout treatment.
*If history of Herpes, begin Valtrex 2-3 days prior to treatment date continuing for 5 days post treatment.
POST TREATMENT
Immediately after treatment, your clinician may apply an occlusive barrier e.g. Aquaphor, Elta MD or another cream such as Cicalfate to the treated area and should be reapplied as needed to keep the skin moist. The use of a moisturizer with petroleum may be suited for individuals who receive more graduated coverage while the cream may be sufficient on less aggressive treatments.
Cleanse the skin two times a day with plain, lukewarm water and a gentle cleanser; e.g. Cetaphil, beginning the morning after the treatment. Use your hands to gently apply the cleanser and water and finish by patting dry with a soft cloth. DO NOT rub, scrub, use an exfoliant or a skin care brush e.g. Clarisonic in the treated area. Doing so could result in scarring and pigmentation complications.
Moisturizer should be applied generously over treated area and reapplied whenever your skin feels dry. For severe dryness, add Elta MD or Aquaphor on top of your moisturizer or mix it in with it.
Peeling and flaking generally occur within 24 hours post treatment and should be allowed to come off naturally. DO NOT PICK, RUB, OR FORCE OFF ANY SKIN DURING THE HEALING PROCESS, THIS COULD RESULT IN SCARRING, PIGMENTATION COMPLICATIONS AND INFECTION! Gently washing the skin more frequently will help to promote the peeling process.
Sunscreen is a MUST and should be used daily beginning the day of treatment and used vigilantly for up to 3 months post procedure. Use recommended sunscreen with broadband protection (UVA and UVB) and a sun protection factor (SPF) of 30. Apply sunscreen 20 minutes before sun exposure. Reapply sunscreen every 2 hours. If direct sun exposure is necessary, wear a hat and clothing that covers the treated area. If treated area is exposed to sun (direct or indirect) blistering, scarring, hyperpigmentation or hypo-pigmentation can / will occur. Sun exposure should be avoided for 2 months post treatment.
Typically after the peeling process is complete, make up can be worn.
When showering in the next few days, be sure to avoid getting shampoo directly on the treated area. You may consider taking your shower with the back of your head to the water to avoid directly hitting your face with the full force stream of the water.
Avoid strenuous exercise and sweating until after skin has healed.
Please call the office directly for any further questions or concerns regarding your HALO treatment at 401-848-0022.
-
POST TREATMENT
Apply a cold compress or ice pack to the area for 20 minutes on and 20 minutes off for up to 48 hours
Take acetaminophen (Tylenol) to reduce discomfort, but avoid NSAIDs (Ibuprofen, Advil) which can slow healing
Sleep on your back with your head elevated on 2-3 pillows for 3-5 days
Drink plenty of water to help flush out fat cells
Eat a balanced diet to support healing
Reduce physical activity for 48 hours to minimize swelling and bruising
Avoid makeup for 24 hours after treatment, and avoid facials, chemical peels, or laser treatments on the treated area for 14 days
Contact your practitioner immediately if you experience difficulty swallowing, breathing, or skin discoloration or scabbing
-
POST TREATMENT
Your skin will have the sensation and appearance of a mild sunburn for the first 24-48 hours, and may be accompanied by some swelling, This is completely normal.
It is imperative to wear an SPF of 30+ everyday, and to avoid direct sunlight for the first 1-2 weeks post treatment.
You may wear makeup that day if desired, as this treatment is non-ablative. However, it may be best to avoid for the first 24-48 hours as you may experience discomfort due to the mild sunburn sensation.
Use gentle cleansers, and moisturizers and avoid using any harsh acids or retinoids/retinols for at least 1 week.
Avoid vigorous exercise and exposure to excessive heat for the first 2 days, this can increase burning and swelling sensations.
Between days 3 and 5, you will begin to notice a sandpaper- like texture to your skin with small brown dots. This is called “mends” and indicates that all of the old skin cells are being removed to allow for new healthy cells to take their place.
For optimal results, 3 treatments every 4 weeks are recommended, with maintenance sessions 1 - 2 times per year.
-
POST TREATMENT
Avoid touching the treated areas, leaning forward, or strenuous activity for the first 4 hours following treatment.
Avoid vigorous exercise for 24 hours post-injections.
Avoid exposure to excessive heat (saunas, steam rooms, heated yoga) for the initial 72 hours, as this can lead to early breakdown of the neurotoxin.
You may start to notice some effects/muscle relaxation in the first few days after treatment, but it will take a full 2 weeks for the final results.
If any touch ups are needed or desired, this can be done after 14 days, call us at 401-848-0022 to schedule.
-
PRE TREATMENT
We recommend avoiding blood thinners such as NSAIDs (Ibuprofen, Aspirin, Advil, Motrin), fish oil, Vitamin E, and alcohol for 3-5 days before treatment to reduce the risk of bruising and bleeding.
If you have a history of cold sores, notify your provider in advance. You may be advised to take antiviral medication (e.g., Valtrex) 24 hours before treatment.
Discontinue retinoids, exfoliants, and active skincare products (such as AHAs, BHAs, benzoyl peroxide,) 3 days before treatment.
Avoid excessive sun exposure and tanning beds for at least one week prior to treatment. Use broad-spectrum SPF 30+ daily.
If you are pregnant, nursing, or have an active skin infection in the treatment area, this procedure is not recommended. Post-Treatment Instructions:
POST TREATMENT
Mild redness, swelling, and pinpoint bruising may occur and typically resolve within 3-7 days.
Avoid touching, rubbing, or massaging the treated area for 24 hours post-treatment to prevent irritation.
Ice packs may be applied in 10-minute intervals for the first 24 hours to reduce swelling and discomfort.
Avoid NSAIDs (Ibuprofen, Aspirin, Advil, Motrin) for 2 weeks post-treatment, as they may interfere with the healing process. Tylenol is recommended if needed.
keep the skin clean and dry following treatment
Do not apply any other topical products for 18-20 hours post PDGF treatment.
Avoid excessive sweating, hot tubs, saunas, and strenuous exercise for 24 hours
Continue using a broad-spectrum SPF 30+ sunscreen daily to protect the treated skin.
You may resume your regular skincare routine (including active ingredients) 5-7 days post-treatment or as advised by your provider.
-
POST TREATMENT
Acetaminophen may be taken, and ice may be applied for discomfort
Re-treatment may occur at 3-4 months for most, but may occur as soon as 6 weeks at the provider’s discretion
Avoid makeup for 24 hours post-procedure
Avoid strenuous workouts, extensive sun or heat exposure (such as hot tubs or saunas), and alcoholic beverages. Exposure to any of these may cause temporary redness, swelling, and/or itching at the injection sites
Arnica may be applied over bruises to speed healing
Results are gradual. Expect 80% of results at 3 months and 100% of results at 6 months post treatment
Keep in mind it is normal to bruise or swell prior to treatment
-
POST TREATMENT
HAVE AN - ice pack ready: Within the first 24 hours of treatment, apply a cloth-wrapped ice pack to the treated area for a few minutes at a time.
GIVE YOURSELF - facial massages: Massage the treated area for 5 minutes 5 times a day for 5 days after treatment.
AVOID - excess sunlight and UV exposure: Protecting your skin from the sun is always important, but after treatment, excessive sunlight and UV lamp exposure should be avoided until any initial swelling and redness go away.
Feel free to wear makeup a few hours after.
Treated areas may be red, swollen, and bruised for the first 2-7 days.
Do NOT get a facial or massage for 2 weeks after your filler procedure.
Avoid strenuous workouts and alcohol for 24 hours if possible.
If bruising occurs, continue Arnica supplements, DO apply topical Arnica gel, drink fresh pineapple juice, and/or take Bromelain supplements to help bruising resolve faster.
Bruising can be covered with makeup.
A few days after treatment, you will look as you did before treatment. This is normal, over time, Sculptra will replace lost collagen.
-
POST TREATMENT
Possible mild redness or local inflammation that usually disappears within the first 24-48 hours
Patients should avoid prolonged exercise for the first 24-48 hours
Patients should avoid the sun, UV ray and freezing temperatures for the first 24-48 hours
Patients should avoid use of saunas or steam rooms for at least 48 hours
About Radiant Esthetics
-
Our boutique med spa is located in Newport, Rhode Island, serving clients throughout Aquidneck Island and the surrounding coastal communities.
-
Radiant Esthetics is owned and led by Jana Magarian, a licensed aesthetic expert known for her personalized approach and focus on natural, confidence-boosting results.
-
We combine medical-grade treatments with a spa-like experience — blending advanced technology, experienced providers, and a personalized touch to deliver subtle, radiant results that look effortless.
Appointments & Policies
-
You can book directly through our website or by calling the spa at (401) 848-0022. We recommend scheduling a complimentary consultation for first-time clients so we can tailor treatments to your unique needs.
-
We kindly ask for at least 24 hours’ notice for cancellations or reschedules to avoid a fee. You’ll see the full policy during booking.
Explore Radiant Esthetics in Newport, RI
Radiant Esthetics is proud to serve clients across Newport, Middletown, and Portsmouth, RI. Whether you’re searching for “Botox near me,” “Facials Newport RI,” or “Laser Hair Removal in Rhode Island,” our expert team is here to help you look and feel your most radiant.
